DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2016.v04i11.056

Pages: 4146-4150

Unstable carotid plaques, characterized by increased levels of macrophages and T lymphocytes, have high emboligenic potential and carry a risk for producing cerebral ischemic events. It has been suggested that plaque instability may be mediated by a family of extracellular proteinases:- the matrix metalloproteinases. These matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are required for numerous developmental and disease-related processes and contribute to the development of de novo atherosclerotic plaques as well as the rupture of the plaques by degrading the associated extracellular matrix. It is important therefore that the reference range accurately reflects the levels of MMP in the patient. The aim of this study was to calculate a reference range from a normal population. Results from twelve hundred and fifty patients were analysed, and using this normal population the reference range for females was calculated to be 14.3 – 34.6 (M ±2SD) ng/mL with a 95 % CL while the males was 19.8 – 99.5 (M ±2SD) ng/mL with a 95 % CL. Having a correct reference range for the MMP-9 is a potential means of reducing patient anxiety, iatrogenic morbidity and mortality, and cost.